The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has never been one to back down from a challenge. The nation is home to the world’s largest building, artificial island, and shopping mall, containing its own indoor ski resort and colony of penguins. However, this time United Arab Emirates is seeking to outdo science fiction itself and create a fully functional city on Mars by 2117.

Prime Minister Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid al Maktoum revealed his nations astronomical ambitions by announcing the project “Mars 2117.” UAE joins an elite group of countries including the United States, China and Russia, plus private companies, who strive to put human life on Mars. By coaching an assembly of young scientists and engineers, the Prime Minister believes the project to be a legitimate possibility. The announcement came via the Prime Minister’s tweet, “We aspire in the coming century to develop science, technology and our youth’s passion for knowledge. This project is driven by that vision.”

The project certainly faces its share of adversity. Mars has an average temperature of 81 degrees below zero (UAE often tops 100 degrees), so scientists say living underground may be the only way to avoid cancerous cosmetic rays. The city would also have to be self-sustainable in terms of food, water and resources. Scientists say that with proper funding the project is feasible. Matt Damon, watch out.